Snow-capped peaks, winding rivers, pine-scented air, and a sense of timeless calm — Manali isn’t just a destination, it’s a feeling. Nestled in the lap of Himachal Pradesh, this hill town is where honeymooners find romance, adventurers find thrill, and tired city souls find peace.

But before you sip hot chai by the Beas or lose yourself in the foggy streets of Old Manali, you need to get there.
Let’s explore the best ways to reach this mountain wonderland, no matter where you’re starting from.

🛣️ By Road – The Scenic Route (Most Popular): 

Manali is best connected by road, and trust us, the journey is part of the charm.

🚗 From Delhi:

Distance: ~530 km

Time: 12–14 hours by car or bus

Drive through Chandigarh, Bilaspur, Mandi, and Kullu before Manali welcomes you with pine forests and cool breeze.

Volvo Buses (Himachal Roadways, HRTC, private operators) leave daily from Delhi (Majnu Ka Tilla, RK Ashram). Overnight options are perfect — sleep in Delhi, wake up in paradise.

🚌 From Chandigarh:

Distance: ~310 km

Time: 8–9 hours

Frequent buses, taxis, and rental cars are available. Ideal if you're flying into Chandigarh.

🚘 From Shimla, Dharamshala, or Leh: Manali is also connected to nearby gems:

Shimla to Manali: 7–8 hours via scenic Kullu Valley

Dharamshala to Manali: 7–9 hours

Leh to Manali: One of the most epic drives in the world! Takes about 2 days with a stop at Sarchu or Keylong.

✈️ By Air – Fastest Option (But with a Twist)

Manali doesn’t have its own airport, but you can fly into Kullu-Manali Airport (Bhuntar) — about 50 km from Manali.

Flights Available From:

Delhi (Daily)

Chandigarh (less frequent)

Note:

Flights can get delayed due to weather.

From Bhuntar, take a taxi or pre-booked cab to reach Manali in 90 minutes.

🚉 By Train – Not Direct, But Doable

Manali doesn’t have a railway station — but if you love trains, here’s what you can do:

Nearest Stations:

Joginder Nagar (approx. 160 km) – Small and less connected.

Chandigarh / Ambala (300–350 km) – Better options for long-distance trains.
From these stations, hop on a taxi or Volvo bus to Manali.

✨ Ideal Travel Plan (From Popular Cities)

Reaching Manali isn’t just about covering distance — it’s about entering a new headspace.
Whether you’re watching the hills roll past your window on a bus, gliding through the clouds on a short flight, or cruising through hairpin bends in your car, the journey builds anticipation for what’s to come.

So pack your bags, charge your playlists, and get ready — Manali is waiting.